Cross-Training

Cross-training is a weird concept. The logic is that when you are training to do something, doing a completely different activity part of the time can be beneficial. How?!?! It is proven that it works. If you are training to run a marathon, swimming helps. If you are training to race motorcycles, running helps. The cross-training principle applies to more than just physical training. Artists utilize it too. Actors often play music or paint to stretch their creative muscles.

Pastors use it as well. We often take pictures, write fiction or other essays, and do many other things to try and hone our craft. While the list of cross-training options for sermon crafting is infinite, there are some natural companions. The two things that stretch and strengthen me most are writing (any kind) and reading (books other than the Bible). I have been writing more essays, fiction stories, and other things that are just for fun. Crafting words that do not necessarily need to be spoken in a sermon is a different skill. Writing to elicit emotion and connection helps craft a sermon. Reading, especially fiction, opens a world of new ways to speak about things. It shows how masterfully people can use words to bring images, emotions, and challenging concepts to life.

But there are more cross-training exercises out there that add to the craft. What are you doing now that is not necessarily focused on sermon crafting but is your version of cross-training?